Analysis of the Formation Process of Young Football Athletes in Differentiated Situations

Abstract

This study investigates the process of formation of football athletes from two countries, in two different continents, considering the point of view of managers and coaches whose discourse – currently in vogue – reveals a set of values known as holism. The research was conducted using ethnographic techniques by means of two instruments: semi-structured interviews and the field diary. The semi-structured interviews were examined by content analysis. Based on the observations reported in the field diary by two research teams during matches, training sessions, and social ctivities, this study presents insight in the process of specialization of these athletes. The study shows that there is concern about developing athletes from a multidisciplinary perspective that goes beyond the technical dimension. Although not always possible, the intention is to form intelligent athletes who are capable of fully exercising their citizenship. If holistic values are considered, the clubs can be important social institutions in the upbringing of these athletes. However, in order to enable them to perform this mission, structural adjustments in the clubs and the social mechanisms are necessary.